In stunning prose, Jenn takes us on a journey through survival and healing that leaves the reader breathless. She describes the seemingly endless range of feelings that crush like an avalanche against us, sifting through the negative and positive to reveal simple hope. In her words:
“It feels as though every painting you’ve ever done is a gift from it. It feels enlightening. Being without it, would be nonchalance. This hole has festered, yet sprouted something promising. A branch of association. To take ownership of a feral estate is finally freedom. You feel connected to something. Soon, you feel like screaming out instead of into pillow. Because you came to see you’re blameless. The guilt and shame are still insisting in their own formidable ways, but you can yell out like you couldn’t before. The shame in the word, in the opinions of others, is gone. You want to invite conversation, so that no one will feel as empty as you once did. Because there are many of you. So very many.”
Read It Feels by Jenn.
Check out some new stories and poetry on End the Silence campaign. Stay posted as the site continues to be updated!
Alaina M. – My Story
Danielle – What Could Have Been
Julie Cruickshank – Victim or Survivor
Jurate Leslie R. – Amusement
Kelly Gorman – After
Kelly Gorman – Empty Eyes
Laura Hardesty – My Story
Madeleine Leitz – 1 or 2
Megan Molargik – When I Said ‘No’
Melissa Cohn – Collected Poems
Rebecca Altringer – The Story of My Life
S. Amick – My Story
Sharra Smith – My Story
In “Angels of Silence,” a poem dedicated to his ex-girlfriend and survivors of rape and sexual violence everywhere, Bryan expresses his anger and frustration lyrically and powerfully. In his words:
“so I will never stop fighting
this is for everyone with the same story
as long as I have breath and vocal cords
hands that can write and a will that can fight
we can shape the future one small piece at a time
I do believe that every dark tunnel has a glint of light
keep your head up my angel I know you can shine
I know your wings can fly
carry on and don’t let the fire die
everything will get better
it is only a matter of time”
Today’s feature is a story about overcoming abuse in a strict, religious family. In this story, K. Long discusses the many ways she tried to heal from what happened, from therapy to reading to journaling. What finally helped her begin the healing process was meeting other survivors and begin to share her story. She shares her story with all of you here as she continues in the process of healing and survival. Read K. Long’s story.
Our featured poet, Patricia Rickey explores the metaphor of animals, both as guardians and predators, in this lyrical poem. Check out her poem and the rest of the stories and poems featured during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Thank you to each of our contributors for sharing their stories. If you are interested in sharing your story, click here. Read Patricia’s poem here!
Today’s feature is a poem by Laura Connett about some of the challenges of leaving an abusive situation. She delves into the mental games that romantic partners can play to exert their authority and power. She also describes the courage that it takes to leave. Read Laura’s poem here.
I just received this submission from Jwahir and I found the poem incredibly touching. I am proud to share it with you here. Take a moment to read it and leave your comments! Also, we have featured a different story or poem every day this month, so make sure to check out the Stories and Poetry pages. And if you haven’t had a chance to read the e-journal yet, check it out here! Alright, now back to our feature. Check out Jwahir’s poem here.
In this poem, an anonymous women’s resource center client in Traverse City, MI gives a voice to her feelings. She also explores the idea of validation, something that we don’t realize is often times lost after a sexual assault. Although it appears her validation came after a startling life event, it is with great hope that her journey to recovery was assisted by these feelings.
Read Fears and Tears.
